The first section of the Scheldetunnel has surfaced above water in Zeebrugge, marking a significant milestone for this major infrastructure project. This development was announced by construction company Lantis on 2025-05-03 14:37:00, capturing attention across Belgium and beyond.
- Eerste tunneldeel Scheldetunnel boven water gebracht
- Tunneldelen wegen tot 60.000 ton elk
- Ballasttanks leeggepompt om tunneldeel te laten drijven
- Tunneldeel vertrekt 19 mei richting Antwerpen
- Scheldetunnel bevat autoverkeer-, vlucht- en fietskoker
- Tunneldelen liggen sinds april onder water in Zeebrugge
Since mid-April, eight massive tunnel segments have rested underwater in the Zeebrugge construction dock. Now, the first of these colossal concrete parts, each weighing up to 60,000 tons, is being carefully floated to the surface, preparing for its journey towards Antwerp via the North Sea and the Schelde River. What challenges does balancing such a giant structure pose? And how will this impact traffic and connectivity in the region?
As the project progresses, the floating of the first tunnel segment paves the way for the next steps in completing the Oosterweel connection, a key artery for Belgian transport. Here is a concise overview of what this means for Belgium and its infrastructure.
What does this floating milestone reveal about the complexity and scale of the Scheldetunnel project? It highlights the precision and engineering expertise required to balance and transport enormous tunnel sections across the sea. Key points to consider include:
- Each tunnel segment contains five ballast tanks to control buoyancy during the floating process.
- The journey to Antwerp will cover over 100 kilometers with stops in Zeebrugge and Terneuzen.
- The tunnel will feature two traffic tubes, a safety escape tube, and a dedicated cycling tube.
Looking ahead, the successful floating and transport of these tunnel sections will be a major step toward completing the Scheldetunnel. Will this innovative engineering feat set new standards for underwater tunnel construction in Belgium? Stay tuned as the project continues to unfold, shaping the future of Belgian transport.
